Comoros battled Zambia to a tense goalless draw in the Africa Cup of Nations finals, with the plucky islanders nearly snatching a stunning upset in their Group A showdown on Friday.

Myziane Maolida’s 19th-minute goal for Comoros was overturned by VAR for a foul.

After reviewing the VAR screen on the sideline, the referee disallowed the goal after Yacine Bourhane’s violent tackle on Owen Tembo won possession.

Comoros carved out a late opportunity as Faiz Selemani soared for a header, narrowly missing the target after captain Youssouf M’Changama lofted a teasing chip into the box.

Zambia, champions in 2012, struggled to find their rhythm and looked sluggish throughout the match.

The stalemate at Stade Mohammed V leaves Comoros, the tournament’s smallest contender, with just one point from two games after their earlier defeat to hosts Morocco. Zambia, meanwhile, has opened with back-to-back draws.

Both teams now face daunting final group matches on Monday, where defeat would all but end their hopes of advancing.

Comoros must overcome Mali in Casablanca to keep their dreams alive, while Zambia faces a formidable Morocco side and needs at least a draw to survive.